Grade A Customary Court, sitting in Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, has asked a couple, Kayode and Michelle, to go their different ways on account of irresponsibility, clubbing and excessive drinking.
Kayode stated that Michelle had proved to be irresponsible from the first day of their marriage, adding that she lacked all the virtues he expected to see in a woman.
The plaintiff explained that he and the defendant had been together in their marriage for five years, but that they had nothing to show for it.
According to Kayode, Michelle had been unable to conceive, despite various efforts and measures taken in an attempt to have a child.
He added that, to his chagrin, his wife, instead of being sad for not having a child, went clubbing.
The plaintiff added that the defendant went to club every day and always got drunk.
Kayode explained that the more he tried to make Michelle see reason, the worse she became.
The plaintiff stated that he could no longer bear the embarrassment caused by his wife’s behaviour.
He thus prayed that their union be dissolved.
Michelle refused to make an appearance in court despite been served court summonses.
Kayode, in his testimony, said, ‘My wife and I got married in April 2020 and I paid N25, 000 as her bride price.
‘My wife began behaving irresponsibly from the outset of our marriage.
‘I discovered she lacked the qualities and virtues I had expected in a wife.
‘I waited anxiously for months, hoping that she would conceive, but she did not.
‘We explored various options, both orthodox and spiritual, but all our efforts proved futile.
‘I expected to see my wife in a somber mood, but, to my chagrin, this was not so.
‘My wife took to clubbing.
‘She spends her days at clubs drinking herself to stupour.
‘The more I complain, the worse she has become.
‘My lord, I can no longer stomach my wife’s shameful behaviour, which was why I came to court.
‘I pray this honourable court to dissolve our wedlock.’
The president of the court, Mrs S.M. Akintayo, stated that both parties had a valid customary marriage because the bride price was paid.
She added that it was obvious and convincing through the plaintiff’s evidence which was not contradicted that both cannot live together any longer as husband and wife.
Akintayo added that their relationship had obviously gone sour.
She further said that the plaintiff had proved his case and entitled to the relief sought from the court.
Ruling, Akintayo declared their union dissolved.
According to her, both parties cease to be husband and wife.